Hi there. im a fresh masters student about to finish my degree. Im considering studying for the ACA or CIMA. The ACA would be with a top 4 accountancy firm, the CIMA would be self funded and on my own. Which is better for the consulting industry. I plan to go into strategy consulting in te future.

Why not have the best of both worlds? Deloitte put their Strategy & Ops consulting grads through CIMA Foundation as part of the induction. You are then encouraged to pursue the full qualification if you wish, with Deloitte picking up the tab!

I'm currently in the final flings of CIMA and have been in consulting for some years. CIMA is very practical and credible in the industry and therefore a strong consulting tool. I don't know ACA too well, but i'd go with CIMA - i believe it's more decision-making focused. You may be able to convince a consulting employer to fund your studies as they too recognise the inherent value in the qualification.